Camping near Petersburg, Virginia ranges from rustic sites to full-service family campgrounds within reasonable driving distance. The area sits at the transition between Virginia's coastal plain and the Piedmont region, creating varied terrain for camping experiences. During spring and fall seasons, overnight temperatures can drop significantly compared to daytime highs, making layered clothing essential for campers regardless of the season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Pocahontas State Park Campground, located about 20 miles north of Petersburg, offers extensive mountain biking opportunities. "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. LOVE the staff," notes one visitor at Pocahontas State Park Campground.
Water sports on Chickahominy River: The waterways provide excellent kayaking and fishing options. "Great site. Very Clean bathhouse. Pool and water area for the kids with a life guard! Huge grass area to walk the dogs or hit golf balls. Trails lead to hidden docks or beaches on the river," explains a camper at Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Historic plantation tours: Visit working farms that showcase agricultural history. "Definitely recommend following the river inland and kayaking through the marshland," mentions a visitor to Chippokes Plantation State Park. The park maintains historic farm operations alongside camping facilities.
Ferry adventures: Take the free ferry near Chippokes State Park for a unique experience. A camper shares: "About 5 miles away is the ferry to Williamsburg...its free and usually a highlight of the trip for the kids!"
What campers like
Forested campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural surroundings at Petersburg area campgrounds. "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful," notes a visitor to Pocahontas State Park Campground.
Swimming facilities: Pool access ranks high on camper satisfaction lists. At Williamsburg Campground, a guest notes, "We loved it here. My kids loved the playground and the pool. The bathrooms were spotless and the whole campground was peaceful and relaxing."
Shark tooth hunting: One unique activity mentioned by campers is fossil hunting. A visitor to Chippokes State Park Campground recommends to "Hunt for sharks teeth on the beach. Pool is very clean."
Spacious riverfront sites: Campers frequently praise waterfront camping spots. "Spacious campsite with amazing views. Could take kayaks straight into the water from our site. Close to Jamestown and many other activities!" shares a visitor at Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
What you should know
Race track noise: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise pollution. At Picture Lake Campground, a camper warns, "The lake was beautiful and the price was nice however it's RIGHT beside the race track and the races go on till midnight."
Extended-stay campers: Several Petersburg area campgrounds host long-term residents. "Ok for an overnight, not really a destination place. LOTS of long term campers, lots of construction workers staying here to work on jobs in area," notes a visitor to Picture Lake Campground.
Site selection matters: Campsite locations vary significantly within the same campground. A Pocahontas State Park visitor suggests, "Every camper's dream spot. Seriously, this modern giant state park has it all: mostly private sites, a paved road for biking, plenty of tree cover (even in winter)."
Military-only options: Some camping facilities near Petersburg have restricted access. A reviewer of Richmond Family Recreation RV Camp mentions, "Small six site campground that the fire department states is never used. Nice clean level spots. Easy on and out if visiting Richmond."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: For summer visits with children, prioritize campgrounds with swimming facilities. At Williamsburg Campground, a camper reports, "They have a pool with a sprayground and a grassy area with ping pong and corn hole. Plus, they always have activities for the kids."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several parks offer safe cycling options for families. At Americamps RV Resort, a camper notes, "The kids loved the playground and pool area. The staff was friendly and put on some fun events during the time we were there like mimosas on Mother's Day and a larger race day event with a band and food trucks."
Riverside exploration: Water features provide natural entertainment for children. A visitor to Chickahominy Riverfront Park shares, "The campground is in a great location to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestowne, and Yorktown and is a great home base for exploring those sites."
Level sites for beginners: New camping families should seek easily accessible spots. "Well laid out sites, clean restrooms and showers," notes a visitor to Pocahontas State Park.
Tips from RVers
Early reservations essential: Popular RV sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "We let them know we were newbies and they were most accommodating! A staff member lead us to our site and stayed to help us set up and was most knowledgeable," shares an Americamps RV Resort visitor.
Site utilities vary: Check specific hookup details before booking. A camper at South Forty RV Resort & Campground notes, "Site A4 was pretty nice. Had enough space between my camper and the neighbors. The only downside was a utility hub somewhat in the middle of the site."
Pull-through availability: RVers appreciate convenient site access. "Spent the night here on site E4. It is a level gravel site with full hookups, including cable TV. Ours was a pull through and we didn't have to unhook to fit!" reports an Americamps RV Resort visitor.
Winter RV camping: Year-round facilities remain open with varied amenities. "We are full time and were passing through and saw this on map. Friendly staff. Level sites with good size sites. Didn't venture out as temps dropped fast this day. Good stop for overnight," shares a South Forty RV Resort camper.
